Several high-performing teams are reshaping the landscape of real estate brokerages across the U.S., citing culture, technology, and support as key reasons for recent moves. These changes reflect a broader trend of top producers seeking alignment with firms that offer stronger resources and growth opportunities.
In Chicago, Karl Vogel’s team, known for nearly $25 million in residential sales in 2025, has moved from @properties to Better Homes and Gardens (BHHS) Chicago. Vogel focuses on vintage and historic properties in neighborhoods such as Andersonville and Evanston and serves on the Landmark Preservation Committee. Kevin Blair, with 13 years of experience across first-time buyers and investors, joined the move. Vogel highlighted the brokerage’s collaborative culture and robust marketing support as key drivers.
Meanwhile, in New Jersey, family-led Exclusive Properties Realty affiliated with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, becoming Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Exclusive Properties. Led by Monis and Edan Young, the nearly 20-year-old brokerage serves Bergen, Passaic, and Hudson counties. The father-son duo cited selective recruiting, brand recognition, and the luxury-focused Distinctive Collection program as reasons for the affiliation, while maintaining a “quality over quantity” approach.
ERA Real Estate expanded its footprint in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia markets by affiliating with Argent Realty, now operating as Argent ERA. Founded in 2020 by Matt Escobar, Argent quickly scaled through an education-focused, relationship-driven model. The brokerage provides multilingual services in residential, commercial, new construction, and land transactions. As part of ERA, Argent ERA gains access to MoxiWorks, Team ERA University, and consumer marketing programs, while Escobar emphasized culture and people as key factors.
In Texas, a 65-agent team led by Tiffany and Greg Bachman joined The Real Brokerage, expanding its presence in Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston. Bachman Realty, previously Fathom Realty’s top national team, closed 650 transactions totaling $245 million in 2025. The Bachmans cited Real’s proprietary technology, collaborative culture, and revenue-share model as major draws, with the brokerage supporting agent mentorship and growth.
Leadership changes also marked Harry Norman Realtors in Atlanta, where Todd Emerson was named president following CEO Jenni Bonura’s departure. Emerson, with 21 years of experience at the firm, will oversee operations across eight offices, focusing on agent experience and growth. HomeServices of America’s leadership praised Emerson’s industry knowledge and commitment to supporting agents through this transition.
Global expansion continues as Engel & Völkers opened a new office in Warsaw, Poland, a month after entering Yucatán, Mexico. The firm also expanded in France with new offices in Deauville, Chamonix, Samoëns, and a representative office in Lyon, reflecting a strategy to strengthen both local and international reach.
In Florida, Douglas Elliman welcomed the Waterbury Brooks Group to its St. Petersburg office, bringing a combined $30 million in sales over the past two years. Coldwell Banker Realty in Coral Gables added Valerie Quemada, an agent with over 20 years of experience, to focus on the Greater Miami luxury market. Both moves highlight continued investment in high-performing agents and luxury market specialization.
